The reasons people attempt suicide

Suicide is the act of taking one’s own life. According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, suicide is one of the leading causes of death in the United States, taking the lives of approximately 43,000 Americans each year.

There’s no single reason why someone may try to take their own life, but certain factors can increase the risk. Someone may be more likely to attempt suicide if they have a mental health disorder. About 90 percent of people who commit suicide have a mental illness at the time of their death. Depression is the top risk factor, but there are various other mental health disorders that can contribute to suicide, including bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.

Aside from mental illnesses, there are several risk factors that may contribute to thoughts of suicide, attempted suicide, and actual suicide. They include:

• previous suicide attempts
• substance abuse
• incarceration
• family history of suicide
• poor job security or low levels of job satisfaction
• history of being abused or witnessing continuous abuse
• being diagnosed with a serious medical condition, such as cancer or HIV
• being socially isolated or a victim of bullying
• being exposed to suicidal behavior

Those who have been shown to be at a higher risk for suicide are:

• men
• people over age 45
• Caucasians, American Indians, or Alaskan Natives

People who have suicidal thoughts are often so overwhelmed by feelings of sadness and hopelessness that they think they have no other option. While it can be hard to know how someone is feeling on the inside, there are various behaviors that can indicate suicidal tendencies. It’s important to recognize these warning signs so you can help a family member or a friend who may be experiencing suicidal thoughts. Taking action and getting someone the help they need may help prevent a tragic suicide attempt or death.

SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

You have a suicidal behavior if you:

• feel hopeless
• feel trapped
• feel alone
• feel anxious or agitated
• feel as if there is no reason to go on living
• think of suicide as a way out
• experience mood swings
• are abusing alcohol or drugs

Signs That you May Attempt Suicide

You can’t see what a person is feeling on the inside, so it isn’t always easy to identify someone who is having suicidal thoughts. However, some outward warning signs that a person may be contemplating suicide include:

• talking about feeling hopeless
• talking about having no reason to go on living
• making a will or giving away personal possessions
• searching for a means of doing personal harm, such as buying a gun
• sleeping too much or too little
• eating too little or eating too much, resulting in significant weight gain or weight loss
• engaging in reckless behaviors, including excessive alcohol or drug consumption
• avoiding social interactions with others
• expressing rage or intentions to seek revenge
• showing signs of anxiousness or agitation

In the next article we will talk about treatment for people who are at risk to attempt suicide.